Located just a 10-minute walk from Akebonobashi Station, the Shinjuku Historical Museum offers a fascinating journey through time—from ancient settlements to Tokyo’s modern development. It’s a hidden gem where history lovers and curious travelers alike can explore real artifacts and immersive exhibits.
The Shinjuku Historical Museum is a modern and imaginative presentation of the history of Shinjuku ward. You can also see the garden view from the stairs, while going down to the exhibition area on basement first floor.
Exhibition Room
Shinjuku has been a site of human activity from the Paleolithic era (i.e. the dawn of the development of primitive stone tools).
The name Shinjuku itself was born in 1698 originating from Edo era of Japanese history “Naito-Shinjuku,” after the baronial Naito family whose residence occupied much of what is now Shinjuku Gyoen Park.
You’ll find displays of small toys once played with by children during the Edo period, offering a glimpse into everyday life in historical Japan.
There are some spots where you can also take pictures.
The picture is of Araitani (sweets shop) located in Yotsuya.
In Edo, where there were a lot of fires, it seems that the fire was prevented from burning up by using a building method called Kurazukuri (蔵造り), which has a thick wall and covered with copper board.
One of the highlights is a full-size streetcar from the Showa era, which you can actually step inside—perfect for photos and nostalgic fun.
The below picture is a reconstruction of a cultural house owned by Mr. Kaneko.
Gas and water supply has been connected in the kitchen of the Kaneko family.
English guide pamphlets are available, making the experience enjoyable even if you don’t read Japanese. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, this museum is a relaxing and enriching stop in Shinjuku.
Visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the museum, except in certain restricted areas. It’s a great place to capture the retro atmosphere of Tokyo—especially around the recreated Showa-era streetcar and traditional homes.
Admission is 300 yen for adults and 100 yen for elementary and junior high school pupils.
Information
| Facility Name | Shinjuku Historical Museum (新宿歴史博物館) |
| Address | 12-16, Sanneicho, Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo |
| TEL | 03-3359-2131 |
| Business Hour | 9:30 – 17:30 (Last entry till 17:00) |
| Closed | 2nd and 4th Monday (but closed Tuesday if that 2nd or 4th Monday falls on a national holiday, in which case it is open on the national holiday) For the whole building fumigation work, it will be closed on December, New Years Holiday (12/29 – 1/3) |
| Access | 10 minutes walk from “Yotsuya Station2 Exit 2 8 minutes walk from “Yotsuya Sanchome Station” Exit 4 8 minutes walk from “Akebonobashi Station” A4 exit |
